Acura RDX vs. BMW X3 vs Cadillac XT5 vs Infiniti QX50 vs Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB

Offering smart versatility, capable performance, and unparalleled luxury — compact luxury SUVs have quickly become a hit with drivers. With new entrants joining the segment each year, shoppers now have a variety of options to choose from. While finding the right model to suit your needs and lifestyle might seem difficult, Motorcars Acura wants to help clear up the confusion. In this competitive comparison, you’ll learn exactly how the Acura RDX measures up against its biggest rivals including the BMW X5, Cadillac XT5, INFINITI QX50, Lexus NX, and Mercedes-Benz GLB.
Acura RDX vs The Competition – Quick Comparison
2023 Acura RDX | VS | 2023 Cadillac XT5 | 2023 BMW X3 | 2023 INFINITI QX50 | 2023 Lexus NX | 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Power Sunroof | Optional | Optional | Requires Higher Trim | Optional | Optional |
10 | Transmission Speeds | 9 | 8 | CVT | 6 | 8 |
104 cubic feet | Passenger Volume | 104 cubic feet | 101 cubic feet | 104 cubic feet | 72 cubic feet | TBD |
Standard | Adaptive Cruise Control | Requires Higher Trim | Not Available | Not Available | Standard | Optional |
Acura RDX vs BMW X3


2023 Acura RDX Base FWD |
VS |
2023 BMW X3 sDrive30i |
$41,350* |
MSRP* |
$46,200 |
272 HP / 280 LB-FT |
Horsepower / Torque |
248 HP / 258 LB-FT |
10 |
Transmission Speeds |
8 |
Standard |
Power Sunroof |
Optional |
Standard |
Heated Front Seats |
Optional |
29.5 cubic feet |
Rear Cargo Room |
28.7 cubic feet |
3,775 lbs |
Curb Weight |
4,079 lbs |
Standard |
Tire Fill Assistant |
Not Available |
6 Years / 70,000 Miles |
Powertrain Warranty Coverage |
4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
First up to face off against the Acura RDX is the BMW X3. Right from the start, the RDX enjoys a significant price advantage over the X3 when comparing base trim levels. Value is just one key advantage that Acura holds over BMW. When it comes to performance, the X3 is simply no match for the RDX. In addition to significantly more horsepower and torque, the Acura RDX also boasts a more advanced 10-speed automatic transmission for greater responsiveness and a lower curb weight that contributes to more agile handling.
Shifting our attention towards interior refinement, the Acura RDX continues to shine. A standard power sunroof lets you enjoy fresh air and natural lighting inside the RDX. Similarly, both the driver and front passenger of the RDX will appreciate the standard heated front seats on chilly mornings. Both features are expensive options that BMW X3 shoppers will have to shell out additional cash for. The clever Tire Fill Assistant feature found on the RDX is not available in any form on the X3. Finally, greater cargo room and a longer term of powertrain warranty coverage round out the extensive list of advantages for the Acura RDX.
Acura RDX vs Cadillac XT5


2023 Acura RDX Base FWD |
VS |
2023 Cadillac XT5 Base |
$41,350* |
MSRP* |
$44,195 |
280 LB-FT |
Torque |
258 LB-FT |
10-Speed Automatic |
Transmission |
9-Speed Automatic |
22 / 28 / 24** |
MPG** (city/hwy/combined) |
21 / 28 / 24 |
Standard |
Adaptive Cruise Control |
Requires Higher Trim Level |
29.5 cubic feet |
Intelligent Brake Assist |
Requires Higher Trim Level |
19-inch |
Wheel Size |
18-inch |
Standard |
Power Sunroof |
Optional |
Driver / Passenger |
Heated Seats |
Optional |
Standard |
Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror |
Not Available |
Our next challenger to go up against the Acura RDX is the Cadillac XT5. Looking at base trim levels, the starting MSRP of the RDX is $2,845 less than the XT5. Outstanding value is a core strength of the RDX which we’ll investigate further.
Standard features found on the RDX add convenience, style, and confidence while Cadillac shoppers will have to reach deeper into their wallets in order to receive similar equipment. Heated seats for the driver and front passenger, a power sunroof, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are each examples of standard features on the RDX. Larger 19-inch wheels offer a more stylish look than the 18-inch wheels on the Cadillac.
When it comes to performance and efficiency, the Acura RDX delivers more than the Cadillac XT5. Not only does the RDX have greater torque than the XT5, it’s also more fuel efficient. A more sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission contributes to the MPG figures while providing greater response.
Driver-assistive technologies help inspire confidence behind the wheel of the Acura RDX. A standard Collision Mitigation Braking System can apply the brakes automatically to help avoid a potential collision. Also helpful in stop-and-go traffic, the RDX comes equipped with adaptive cruise control to help you maintain an appropriate following distance to the vehicle in front.
Acura RDX vs INFINITI QX50


2023 Acura RDX Base FWD |
VS |
2023 INFINITI QX50 PURE FWD |
$41,350* |
MSRP* |
$40,300 |
272 HP / 280 LB-FT |
Horsepower / Torque |
268 HP / 280 LB-FT |
10-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type |
CVT |
Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
Smartphone Integration |
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
9 |
Number of Speakers |
6 |
10 inches |
Touchscreen Display Size |
8 inches |
Standard |
Traffic Sign Recognition |
Not Available |
Standard |
Adaptive Cruise Control |
Not Available |
Standard |
Lane Keep Assist |
Not Available |
Standard |
Power Sunroof |
Not Available |
Third on our list of competitors for the dynamic Acura RDX is the INFINITI QX50. Although they share very similar base prices, that’s where the similarities between these two end. The RDX has the edge when it comes to horsepower and also benefits from an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission for more responsive acceleration at all speeds. Although both SUVs have standard smartphone integration, it’s the RDX that boats wireless connectivity for greater convenience and ease of use.
Similarly, you’ll appreciate the superior listening experience inside the Acura RDX that’s made possible by the standard 9-speaker audio system. There’s also a larger 10-inch touchscreen display for easier access to your favorite apps and media. At the touch of a button, you can open its standard panoramic sunroof to fill the cabin of the RDX with fresh air and natural sunlight.
Finally, the clear favorite in terms of cutting-edge safety technology is the Acura RDX. Standard features found across the model range include Traffic Sign Recognition, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keep Assist. These great features are either entirely unavailable or require a higher trim level of the INFINITI QX50.
Acura RDX vs Lexus NX


2023 Acura RDX Base FWD |
VS |
2023 Lexus NX 250 FWD |
272 / 280 LB-FT |
Horsepower / Torque |
203 / 184 LB-FT |
20 inches |
Wheel Size |
18 inches |
Power Liftgate w/ key fob controls |
Rear Cargo Door |
Manual Liftgate |
Standard |
Power Sunroof |
Optional |
9 |
Number of Speakers |
8 |
Standard |
Heated / Ventilated Seats |
Optional |
Driver |
Seat Memory |
Optional |
Standard |
Integrated Navigation |
Optional |
58.9 cubic feet |
Maximum Cargo Capacity |
54.6 cubic feet |
104 cubic feet |
Passenger Volume |
72 cubic feet |
Our next competitor to go up against the Acura RDX is the Lexus NX. One glance at the performance data makes it clear that the RDX gives you more horsepower and torque for an exhilarating driving experience. Its standard 20-inch wheels give it a commanding stance and eye-catching side profile.
When you choose the RDX, you’ll have access to an array of innovative technology features. Standard blind spot monitoring along with front and rear parking sensors each provide greater confidence while protecting you from the unexpected. A power rear liftgate on the RDX makes it easy to access the rear cargo area.
There are plenty of luxurious features which are included as standard inside the Acura RDX. The front seats feature heating and ventilation functions along with seat memory for the driver. A standard sunroof brings fresh air and sunlight into the cabin at the press of a button. Giving you an unmatched audio experience, the RDX offers more speakers than the Lexus NX.
Acura RDX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB


2023 Acura RDX Base FWD |
VS |
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 SUV |
$41,350 |
MSRP* |
$39,800 |
272 HP / 280 LB-FT |
Horsepower / Torque |
221 HP / 258 LB-FT |
10 |
Transmission Speeds |
8 |
19 inches |
Wheel Size |
18 inches |
10 inches |
Infotainment Display Screen Size |
7 inches |
Standard |
Automatic High Beam Headlights |
Not Available |
Standard |
Power Sunroof |
Optional |
Standard |
Heated Front Seats |
Optional |
Standard |
Ambient Interior Lighting |
Optional |
Standard |
Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror |
Optional |
6 Years / 70,000 Miles |
Powertrain Warranty Coverage |
4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
Last up, we’ll investigate how the Acura RDX fares against the formidable Mercedes-Benz GLB. Although the Mercedes-Benz begins with a slight price advantage, a closer look reveals that choosing Acura actually proves to be the smarter financial decision. Beginning with performance, the GLB is simply no match for the superior horsepower, torque, and transmission included as standard with the RDX. Larger 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX a more prominent stance on the road as well.
Inside the cabin, drivers will immediately be drawn to the expansive 10-inch touchscreen display of the RDX. Other premium amenities included as standard inside the RDX are a power sunroof, heated front seats, ambient interior lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and automatic high beam headlights. All of these great features are either unavailable or require you to shell out additional cash at Mercedes-Benz. Finally, Acura delivers a longer powertrain warranty coverage term for long-lasting confidence and value.
After going head-to-head against the BMW X3, Cadillac XT5, INFINITI QX50, Lexus NX, and Mercedes-Benz GLB — the winner of this competitive comparison is the Acura RDX. The competition simply cannot compete with the groundbreaking technology, premium standard features, exceptional value, and impressive efficiency found on the RDX. Motorcars Acura cordially invites you to come experience all that the Acura RDX has to offer.
*Prices shown are Acura suggested retail prices only and do not include taxes, license or destination and handling charge. Acura vehicle accessory costs, labor and installation vary. Dealers set their own prices. Please consult your selected dealer.
**Based on 2023 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors.